Fiber-Reinforced Composites for Full-Arch Implant-Supported Rehabilitations: An In Vitro Study.

Background: Fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) have been proposed as an alternative to traditional metal alloys for the realization of frameworks in full-arch implant-supported prostheses. The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the deflection under load of seven prostheses endowed with frameworks made of different materials, including different types of fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs). Methods: A master cast with four implant analogues in correspondence with the two lateral incisors and the two first molars was used to create full-arch fixed prostheses with the same shape and different materials. Prostheses were made of the following different materials (framework+veneering material): gold alloy+resin (Au+R), titanium+resin (Ti+R), FRC with multidirectional carbon fibers+resin (ICFRC+AR), FRC with unidirectional carbon fibers+composite (UCFRC+C), FRC with glass fibers+resin (GFRC+AR), FRC with glass fibers+composite (GFRC+C), and resin (R, fully acrylic prosthesis). Flexural tests were conducted using a Zwick/Roell Z 0.5 machine, and the deflection of the lower surface of the prosthesis was measured in order to obtain load/deflection graphs. Results: Greater rigidity and less deflection were recorded for UCFRC+C and GFRC+C, followed by Ti+R and Au+R. The greatest deformations were observed for resin alone, ICFRC+R, and GFRC+R. The results were slightly different in the incisal region, probably due to the greater amount of veneering material in this area. Conclusions: When used to realize full-arch frameworks, Au and Ti allow for predictable mechanical behavior with gradual deformations with increasing load. UCFRC also demonstrated good outcomes and less deflection than ICFRCs when loaded. The GFRC full-arch framework may be a valid alternative, although it showed greater deflections. Further studies are needed in order to evaluate how different prosthesis designs and material thicknesses might affect the outcomes.

Vacuum Plasma Treatment Device for Enhancing Fibroblast Activity on Machined and Rough Titanium Surfaces.

This study was conducted to compare the effects of an innovative plasma surface treatment device that does not need a gas supply for titanium disks with two different surface topographies: the prototypical machined surface (MAC) and one of the most diffused roughened ones (SL) obtained through grit blasting and acid etching. A total of 200-MAC and 200-SL titanium disks were used. Each group of disks was divided into four sub-groups of 40 samples each that were subjected to five different tests. Among these, 150-MAC and 150-SL were considered the test group, and they were treated with plasma for 15, 30, and 60 s after being removed from the sterile packaging. On the other hand, 50-MAC and 50-SL were considered the control group, and they were only removed from sterile plastic vials. The samples were analyzed to evaluate the capability of the plasma treatment in influencing protein adsorption, cell adhesion, proliferation, and microbial growth on the test group disks when compared to the untreated disks. Protein adsorption was significantly enhanced after 20 min of plasma treatment for 15 and 30 s on the MAC and SL disks. Plasma treatment for 15 and 30 s significantly increased the level of adhesion in both treated samples after 30 min. Furthermore, the MAC samples showed a significant increase in cell adhesion 4 h after plasma treatment for 15 s. The SEM analysis highlighted that, on the treated samples (especially on the MAC disks), the cells with a polygonal and flat shape prevailed, while the fusiform- and globular-shaped cells were rare. The encouraging results obtained further confirm the effectiveness of plasma treatments on cell adhesion and fibroblast activity.

Effect of auxiliary geometric devices on the accuracy of intraoral scans in full-arch implant-supported rehabilitations: An in vitro study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of a novel auxiliary geometric device (AGD) on the accuracy of full-arch scans captured with 3 different intraoral scanners (IOS). METHODS: An edentulous maxillary model with four internal connection implant replicas was scanned using 3 different IOS: iTero Element 5D (ITERO) (Align Technology, Tempe, AZ, USA), Trios 4 (TRIOS) (3Shape A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark), and Carestream 3700 (CS) (Carestream Dental, Atlanta, USA). Thirty-six scans were taken with each IOS, 18 with the AGD in place, and 18 without the AGD. A digital master model was created using an industrial optical scanner (ATOS compact Scan 5M, GOM GmbH, Braunschweig, Germany). The master and IOS models were aligned using the scan bodies as a reference area. A surface comparison was performed, and deviation labels were exported for each scan body to evaluate the linear and angular deviation. Total body, platform and angular deviations were measured. RESULTS: The use of AGD resulted in a statistically significant increase of angular deviation: 0.87° (SD=0.21) in the AGD group versus 0.64° (SD=0.46) in the no AGD group (p-value=0.005). The difference between the AGD and no AGD groups was not statistically significant for total body and platform deviation values (p-value=0.051 and 0.302 respectively). Using AGD, ITERO showed a statistically significant increase in angular deviation (mean difference=-0.46 µm, p-value=0.002) and a decrease in mean platform deviation (mean difference=63.19 µm, p-value<0.001). No statistically significant differences were found for the other IOS. CONCLUSIONS: The use of AGD did not add benefit on CS and TRIOS. On ITERO, there was an improvement in platform deviation, that was outweighed by the worsening of the angular deviation. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In vitro data suggest that intraoral scans can be successfully used in full-arch cases. The use of AGD has no additional benefit on CS and TRIOS. On ITERO there was an improvement in platform deviation that was outweighed by the worsening of the angular deviation. Translational application to clinical practice deserves further investigation, taking into account patient-related and anatomical variables.

Effect of argon plasma abutment activation on soft tissue healing: RCT with histological assessment.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the peri-implant soft tissue profiles between argon plasma treatment (PT) and non-treated (NPT) healing abutments by comparing clinical and histological parameters 2 months following abutment placement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty participants were randomly assigned to argon-plasma treatment abutments group (PT) or non-treated abutments (NPT) group. Two months after healing abutment placement, soft peri-implant tissues and abutment were harvested, and histological and clinical parameters including plaque index, bleeding on probing, and keratinized mucosa diameter (KM) were assessed. Specialized stainings (hematoxylin-eosin and picrocirious red) coupled with immunohistochemistry (vimentin, collagen, and CK10) were performed to assess soft tissue inflammation and healing, and the collagen content keratinization. In addition to standard statistical methods, machine learning algorithms were applied for advanced soft tissue profiling between the test and control groups. RESULTS: PT group showed lower plaque accumulation and inflammation grade (6.71% vs. 13.25%, respectively; p-value 0.02), and more advanced connective tissue healing and integration compared to NPT (31.77% vs. 23.3%, respectively; p = 0.009). In the control group, more expressed keratinization was found compared to the PT group, showing significantly higher CK10 (>47.5%). No differences in KM were found between the groups. SIGNIFICANCE: PT seems to be a promising protocol for guided peri-implant soft tissue morphogenesis reducing plaque accumulation and inflammation, and stimulating collagen and soft tissue but without effects on epithelial tissues and keratinization.

Diagnostic value of VEGF in peri-implantitis and its correlation with titanium particles: A controlled clinical study.

OBJECTIVES: VEGF is prototypic marker of neovascularization, repeatedly proposed as intrinsic characteristic of peri-implantitis. This study aimed to assess pattern of VEGF in peri-implantitis, its correlation with titanium particles (TPs) and capacity as respective biomarker. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Pathological specificity of VEGF was assessed in peri-implant granulations using immunohistochemistry, periodontal granulations represented Ti-free positive controls. VEGF was correlated to TPs, identified using scanning electron microscopy coupled with dispersive x-ray spectrometry. Diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of VEGF were estimated in PICF specimens from peri-implantitis, peri-implant mucositis (PIM) and healthy peri-implant tissues (HI) using machine learning algorithms. RESULTS: Peri-implantitis exhibited rich neovascular network with expressed density in contact zones toward neutrophil infiltrates without specific pattern variations around TPs, identified in all peri-implantitis specimens (mean particle size 8.9 ± 24.8 µm2; Ti-mass (%) 0.380 ± 0.163). VEGF was significantly more expressed in peri-implantitis (47,065 ± 24.2) compared to periodontitis (31,14 ± 9.15), and positively correlated with its soluble concentrations in PICF (p = 0.01). VEGF was positively correlated to all clinical endpoints and significantly increased in peri-implantitis compared to both PIM and HI, but despite high specificity (96%), its overall diagnostic capacity was average. Two patient clusters were identified in peri-implantitis, one with 8-fold higher VEGF values compared to HI, and second with lower values comparable to PIM. SIGNIFICANCE: VEGF accurately reflects neovascularization in peri-implantitis that was expressed in contact zones toward implant surface without specific histopathological patter variation around TPs. VEGF answered requests for biomarker of peri-implantitis but further research is necessary to decrypt its exact underlying cause.

Ossification and Bone Regeneration in a Canine GBR Model, Part 2: Glycated Cross-Linked Collagenated Alloplastic Hydroxyapatite Scaffold vs Non-Cross-Linked Collagenated Xenographic Bone Hydroxyapatite.

PURPOSE: To compare bone substitutes composed of glycated collagen with synthetic micro-sized (1 to 10 µm) hydroxyapatite (OB) vs non-cross-linked collagen matrix with large-particle (250 to 1,000 µm) bovine-derived hydroxyapatite (BOC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The P1 to P4 premolars were bilaterally extracted from the mandibles of 19 Beagle dogs. After 21 days, osteotomies were created in each dog that received OB or BOC and were covered with a collagen membrane or were left untreated. The animals were randomly divided into three groups based on sacrifice time (4, 12, or 24 weeks). The right and left hemimandibles were trimmed to facilitate imaging and histology, and all tissues were placed in 10% neutral-buffered formalin. Microcomputed tomography (MicroCT 40 Scanner, Scanco) was used to analyze bone sections. Bone volume, residual material volume, and bone mineral density were determined for each treatment site (OB and BOC) based on a volume of interest that encompassed the original defect. Additionally, blinded histopathologic assessment (based on the ISO 10993-6 scoring system) and histomorphometry were performed on sections ground to < 100 µm thick and stained with Stevenel's blue. RESULTS: No clinical side effects were noted. No statistical differences were observed for OB vs BOC regarding the mineral volume percentage. Compared to OB, BOC had significantly higher mean mineralization densities at 12 weeks (P < .01), but this difference did not extend to 24 weeks. For residual grafting material, bone maturation, alveolar ridge restoration, and inflammatory response, OB showed a residual amount of bone graft and no statistical differences compared to BOC. CONCLUSION: Both OB and BOC represent valid treatment options for critically sized bone defects. Both bone fillers outperformed the sham-operated, ungrafted (empty) control, demonstrating statistically improved bone growth and ridge restoration.

Ossification and Bone Regeneration in a Canine GBR Model, Part 1: Thick vs Thin Glycated Cross-Linked Collagen Devices.

Purpose: To compare glycated multilayered membranes (OV) to a commercially available thin-layer membrane (OP) in a lateral ridge augmentation model in dogs. Materials and Methods: This was designed as a three-arm study, where one negative control (empty defect) was compared to two test arms: alveolar bone defects grafted with a mixture of 90% deproteinized bovine bone mineral and 10% porcine collagen, then covered with either a thick- (OV) or thin-layered (OP) membrane. Animals were randomly divided into three groups corresponding to the final sacrifice times of 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. Sections underwent microCT, histology, histopathology, and histomorphometry. Results: No statistical differences were observed for OV compared to OP regarding the percentage of mineral volume and mean mineral density, amount of bone maturation, percentage of bone graft and membrane remaining in the grafted area, alveolar ridge width measurements, membrane mineralization, or ossification. Test groups presented significantly higher values compared to the empty control for all the endpoints. Conclusions: Within its limitations, this in vivo study highlighted that multilayered thick glycated membranes can serve as effective occlusive barriers for up to 6 months.

A novel nonsurgical therapy for peri-implantitis using focused pulsed electromagnetic field: A pilot randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial.

Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy modulates the immune response and is successfully used in orthopedics to treat osteoarthritis and improve bone regeneration. This may suggest that this treatment may consequently reduce peri-implant soft tissue inflammation and marginal bone loss. To compare clinical, radiographic, and immunological results following nonsurgical treatment for peri-implantitis with or without PEMF therapy. Patients with peri-implantitis were included: pocket probing depth (PPD) between 6 and 8 mm with bleeding on probing (BOP); crestal bone loss between 3 and 5 mm. A novel healing abutment that contained active (test) or inactive (control) PEMF was connected. PEMF was administered via the abutment at exposure ratio of 1/500-1/5000, intensity: 0.05-0.5 mT, frequency: 10-50 kHz for 30 days. Nonsurgical mechanical implant surface debridement was performed. Patients were examined at baseline, 1 and 3 months. Clinical assessment included: plaque index, BOP, PPD, recession, and bone crest level which was radiography measured. Samples of peri-implant crevicular fluid were taken to analyze interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß). Twenty-three patients (34 implants; 19 control, 15 test) were included. At the follow-up, mean crestal bone loss was lower in the test group at 1 and 3 months (2.48 mm vs. 3.73 mm, p < 0.05 and 2.39 vs. 3.37, p < 0.01). IL-1ß levels were also lower in the test group at 2 weeks (72.86 pg/mL vs. 111.7, p < 0.05). Within all the limitation of this preliminary study, the test group improved clinical parameters after a short-term period compared to the control group.

Chairside virtual patient protocol. Part 3: In vitro accuracy of a digital facebow.

OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to investigate the trueness and precision of an intraoral transfer element (IOTE) designed for matching intraoral and facial scans. METHODS: A mannequin head with a maxillary model in position was used. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to construct the master model (MM). A digital impression of the maxillary arch was taken using an intraoral scanner, and the IOTE was used to record the maxillary arch position. Twenty facial scans with and twenty without the IOTE in place were performed with a handheld device (Ipad Pro, Apple) using a dedicated software. Digital mounting was performed to build a scan model (SM). Using software for data processing, the three-dimensional deviation between the MM and SM at the central left incisor (#9#), and the left and right first molars (#3#, #14#) was calculated as trueness and linear deviation precision. . Angular deviation was also calculated at the occlusal plane. RESULTS: The linear deviation trueness at #9#, #3# and #14# was 0.3 ± 0.12 mm, 1.07 ± 0.28 mm, and 0.18 ± 0.34 mm, respectively, whereas the precision was 1.17 ± 0.4 mm, 0.43 ± 0.12 mm, and 0.64 ± 0.28 mm, respectively. Trueness of the angular deviation at the occlusal plane was 2.17 ± 0.46°, whereas the angular deviation precision was 0.64 ± 0.28°. CONCLUSIONS: Based on in vitro findings the proposed IOTE design is accurate and suitable for clinical use. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Direct virtual mounting is a reliable technique in vitro; however, in vivo tests are required.

Influence of abutment macro- and micro-geometry on morphologic and morphometric features of peri-implant connective tissue.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present human observational study is to provide morphologic and morphometric analysis of peri-implant connective tissue next to abutments with divergent or convergent macro-geometry and different surface micro-characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty patients were rehabilitated with single implants in the posterior area and one out of three different healing abutments with a one-stage technique: machined divergent abutment (DIV-MAC), machined convergent abutment (CONV-MAC) or convergent abutment with ultrathin threaded surface (CONV-UTM). At 3 months postimplant insertion, peri-implant soft tissue was harvested; the following outcomes were investigated: histomorphometry (vertical width of connective and epithelial components) as detected by histology and polarized light; and connective tissue vertical width and 3D organization as detected by synchrotron-based high-resolution phase-contrast-based tomography (PhC-µCT). RESULTS: Significant differences in connective tissue vertical dimension (aJE-AM) were found between DIV-MAC and both CONV-MAC and CONV-UTM, both by histology and PhC-µCT, with significantly higher values for the last two groups. Moreover, 2D histological analysis did not find significant differences in the junctional epithelium vertical dimension (PM-aJE). Importantly, PhC-µCT analysis revealed, at 3D level, significant greater amount and density of collagen bundles for CONV-UTM compared with the other two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Convergent abutment profiles, regardless of their surface micro-geometry, seem to favor axial development of peri-implant connective tissue. Moreover, ultrathin threaded surfaces seem associated with denser and greater connective tissue organization, which might improve peri-implant soft tissue seal.

Sinus floor augmentation using crestal approach in conjunction with hydroxyapatite/cross-linked collagen sponge: A pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Different biomaterials were suggested for sinus floor augmentation (SFA). Recently, new materials were launched showing true bone formation without remnants. PURPOSE: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate an hydroxyapatite-based, sugar cross-linked collagen sponge (OSSIX™ Bone) in transcrestal SFA (t-SFA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four patients with edentulous posterior maxilla and residual bone height (RBH) >4 mm underwent t-SFA with OSSIX™ Bone as grafting material and simultaneous implant placement. The implant Stability Quotient (ISQ) was measured by resonance frequency analysis (RFA) directly after implant insertion and at 6 months. Differences in bone height (BH) and volume were determined in CBCT and x-rays at baseline versus 1 year of follow-up. Graft volume was evaluated by tridimensional reconstructions. Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the effect of bucco-palatal sinus dimension, RBH, and length of the implant protruding (PIL) into the sinus, on the graft height (GH) changes up to 1 year, and on the graft volume at 1 year. Autocorrelation between time lag and augmented bone volume was evaluated through time series analysis correlograms. Health-related quality-of-life outcomes were captured. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients completed the study. The mean RBH measured at baseline was 5.81 ± 2.2 mm. The mean graft volume was 1085.8 ± 733.4 mm3 . The mean GH, measured in the immediate post-operative period, at 6 and 12 months respectively, was 7.24 mm ±1.94; 6.57 mm ± 2.30; 5.46 mm ± 2.04. The mean ISQ measured after the implant placement was 62.19 ± 8.09, and 6 months later was 76.91 ± 4.50. There was a significant correlation between buccolingual dimension and graft volume at 1 year. Neither buccolingual volume nor RBH had a significant effect on GH change, while the PIL showed a significant positive correlation (P = 0.02 and P = 0.03 at 6 and 12 months, respectively). The correlograms indicated no significant correlation, meaning that there is no tendency for graft volume to increase or decrease over time, therefore suggesting graft stability, at least up to one year of follow-up. 86% of patients had no chewing interference. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of the study, OSSIX™ Bone could be considered a valid material for SFA due to its manageability and its positive results in promoting new bone formation with long-term stability. T-SFA is confirmed as a less invasive and less painful method.

Static and Fatigue Mechanical Performance of Abutments Materials for Dental Restorations.

The choice of the proper restorative material is essential for the long-term success of implant-supported rehabilitations. This study aimed to analyze and compare the mechanical properties of four different types of commercial abutment materials for implant-supported restorations. These materials included: lithium disilicate (A), translucent zirconia (B), fiber-reinforced polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) (C), and ceramic-reinforced polyether ether ketone (PEEK) (D). Tests were carried out under combined bending-compression conditions, which involved applying a compressive force tilted with respect to the abutment axis. Static and fatigue tests were performed on two different geometries for each material, and the results were analyzed according to ISO standard 14801:2016. Monotonic loads were applied to measure static strength, whereas alternating loads with a frequency of 10 Hz and a runout of 5 × 106 cycles were applied for fatigue life estimation, corresponding to five years of clinical service. Fatigue tests were carried out with a load ratio of 0.1 and at least four load levels for each material, and the peak value of the load levels was reduced accordingly in subsequent levels. The results showed that the static and fatigue strengths of Type A and Type B materials were better than those of Type C and Type D. Moreover, the fiber-reinforced polymer material, Type C, showed marked material-geometry coupling. The study revealed that the final properties of the restoration depended on manufacturing techniques and the operator's experience. The findings of this study can be used to inform clinicians' choice of restorative materials for implant-supported rehabilitation, considering factors such as esthetics, mechanical properties, and cost.

Effects of abutment materials on peri-implant soft tissue health and stability: A network meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effect of the abutment material on peri-implant soft tissue health and stability. STUDY SELECTION: An electronic and hand search was conducted until February 2022. Only prospective randomized trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing titanium abutments with abutments made of different materials, with a follow-up of at least 6 months, were selected by two independent reviewers. Data on marginal bone loss (MBL) and peri-implant tissue indexes, i.e., plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), and recession (REC), were collected. The risk of bias for RCTs and non-RCTs was evaluated according to the tool reported in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the ROBINS-I tool, respectively. Both pairwise and network meta-analyses (NMA) were performed. RESULTS: We included 18 relevant studies from 1,437 identified studies. Overall, 612 patients were treated, and 848 abutments were inserted. Five studies presented a low risk of bias. Pairwise meta-analysis showed that, as compared to titanium, zirconia abutments presented a significantly reduced MBL (0.20 mm, 95% Confidence Interval CI [0.14-0.26], P < 0.00001). No significant differences were found for the other outcomes. In the NMA, zirconia abutments demonstrated an 83.3% probability of achieving the highest rank in PI, an 87.0% in BOP, and a 65.0% in PD outcome, suggesting that zirconia abutments generally performed better than titanium and alumina abutments. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limits of the present study, zirconia abutments seem a viable alternative to titanium ones.

Influence of implant diameter on implant survival rate and clinical outcomes in the posterior area: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present systematic review was to test the hypothesis that the diameter of implants inserted in the posterior area affects implant survival rate, prosthetic survival rate and peri-implant parameters (bleeding on probing (BoP), marginal bone loss (MBL), pocket probing depth (PPD)). MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic search of studies published until December 2021 was done on three databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Cochrane) independently by two authors. Clinical trials comparing implant survival rate, BoP, MBL and PPD among narrow diameter implants (NDI: ≥ 3.0 mm to < 3.75 mm) and regular diameter implants (RDI ≥ 3.75 mm to < 5 mm) were included. Data were independently extracted by two reviewers. Risk of bias was evaluated according to the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized studies and to the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools for non-randomized ones. A pair-wise meta-analysis was conducted on the included studies. RESULTS: Seven articles were included out of the 4291 identified from the digital research. Overall, a total of 939 implants were inserted (319 NDI, 620 RDI). Only one study was judged at serious risk of bias. No statistically significant difference was found in implant survival rate (risk ratio 1.01 (95% CI [0.98 to 1.04], P = 0.67)) while the difference was significant for BoP (mean difference 2.89 (95% CI [0.30 to 5.48] mm, P = 0.03)) with higher values for NDI. Higher MBL was identified among regular diameter implants (mean difference -0.15 mm (95% CI [-0.32 to 0.01 mm], P = 0.07). No statistically significant differences were identified for prosthetic survival and PPD. CONCLUSIONS: No differences were found in implant survival rate between narrow and regular implants. A higher BoP was identified among narrow implants, but there was no higher bone loss. It is not possible to draw definitive conclusions about the use of narrow-diameter implants in the posterior region.

Influence of soft tissue thickness on marginal bone level around dental implants: A systematic review with meta-analysis and trial-sequential analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the influence of soft tissue thickness on initial bone remodeling after implant installation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A literature search was conducted by two independent reviewers on electronic databases up to May 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) performed on human subjects were included. The risk of bias was evaluated using Cochrane Collaboration's tool. Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis (TSA) were performed on the selected articles. The primary outcome was marginal bone loss. RESULTS: After screening, 6 studies were included in the final analysis, with a total of 354 implants, and a follow-up from 10 to 14 months. 194 implants were placed in a ≥ 2 mm soft tissue thickness, while 160 had <2 mm soft tissue thickness before implant placement. The included studies had a high level of heterogeneity (I2  > 50%). The meta-analysis indicated a statistically significant difference between the two groups (0.54; p = .027) and the TSA analysis confirmed the results, despite the limited number of dental implants. Additional analysis showed that age and follow-up parameters were not statistically significant factors influencing the bone loss (p = .22 and p = .16, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the available RCTS and CCTs, initial soft tissue thickness seems to influence marginal bone loss after a short follow-up period. Based on TSA analysis, further studies are needed to assess the influence of the soft tissue thickness on marginal bone loss. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021235324.

Biomarkers from Peri-Implant Crevicular Fluid (PICF) as Predictors of Peri-Implant Bone Loss: A Systematic Review.

The aim of the present systematic review is to summarize current knowledge regarding the analysis of biomarkers extracted from peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) as predictors of peri-implant bone loss (BL). An electronic search was conducted on three databases, PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, to find clinical trials published until 1 December 2022 suitable to answer the following focused question: in patients with dental implants, are biomarkers harvested from PICF predictive of peri-implant BL? The initial search yielded a total of 158 entries. After a full-text review and application of the eligibility criteria, the final selection consisted of nine articles. The risk of bias in included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools (JBI). According to the present systematic review, some inflammatory biomarkers harvested from PICF (collagenase-2, collagenase-3, ALP, EA, gelatinase b, NTx, procalcitonin, IL-1ß, and several miRNAs) seem to be correlated with peri-implant BL and may assist in the early diagnosis of pathological BL, that characterizes peri-implantitis. MiRNA expression demonstrated a predictive potential of peri-implant BL that could be useful for host-targeted preventive and therapeutic purposes. PICF sampling may represent a promising, noninvasive, and repeatable form of liquid biopsy in implant dentistry.

Effect of argon plasma pre-treatment of healing abutments on peri-implant microbiome and soft tissue integration: a proof-of-concept randomized study.

PURPOSE: Biofilm-free implant surface is ultimate prerequisite for successful soft and bone tissue integration. Objective of the study was to estimate the effects of argon plasma healing abutment pre-treatment (PT) on peri-implant soft-tissue phenotype (PiSP), inflammation, plaque accumulation and the microbiome (PiM) between non-treated (NPT) and treated (PT) abutments following 3-months healing period. The hypothesis was that cell-conductive and antimicrobial properties of PT would yield optimal conditions for soft tissue integration. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two months following second-phase surgery, microbiological and clinical parameters were assessed around thirty-six healing abutments with two types of microtopography, smooth surface (MACHINED) and ultrathin threaded microsurface (ROUGH). A two level randomization schema was used to achieve equal distribution and abutments were randomly divided into rough and machined groups, and then divided into PT and NPT groups. PiM was assessed using next-generation DNA sequencing. RESULTS: PiM bacterial composition was highly diverse already two months post-implantation, consisting of key-stone pathogens, early and late colonizers, while the mycobiome was less diverse. PT was associated with lower plaque accumulation and inflammation without significant impact on PiSP, while in NPT clinical parameters were increased and associated with periopathogens. NPT mostly harbored late colonizers, while PT exerted higher abundance of early colonizers suggesting less advanced plaque formation. Interaction analysis in PT demonstrated S. mitis co-occurrence with pro-healthy Rothia dentocariosa and co-exclusion with Parvimonas micra, Porphyromonas endodontalis and Prevotella oris. PiSP parameters were generally similar between the groups, but significant association between PiM and keratinized mucosa width was observed in both groups, with remarkably more expressed diversity in NPT compared to PT. PT resulted in significantly lower BOP and PI around rough and machined abutments, respectively, without specific effect on PiM and PiSP. CONCLUSIONS: PT contributed to significantly the less advanced biofilm accumulation and inflammation without specific effects on PiSP.

Clinical effects of conventional and underprepared drilling preparation of the implant site based on bone density: A systematic review and meta-regression.

PURPOSE: There is no clinical consensus to determine the right balance between underpreparation and marginal bone level changes. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-regression was to investigate the influence of the type of drilling preparation of the implant site in relation to the bone mineral density on the clinical success, expressed in terms of the MBL and implant failure rate. STUDY SELECTION: A thorough search was performed using the digital databases MEDLINE PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials by entering research lines or various combinations of free words. The main keywords used were "dental implants", "bone density", and "torque". RESULTS: The mean bone resorption in the conventional preparation group was -0.43 (± 0.28) mm, whereas it was -0.80 (± 0.37) mm in the underprepared group. For the D1/D2/D3 bone group, the slope was significantly different from zero and linearity; the D4 bone group slope was not significantly different from zero and was almost parallel, although it was significantly different from linearity. The box and whiskers plot shows that the MBL in underprepared sites tended to be significantly higher with a higher variation than that in conventionally prepared sites. CONCLUSIONS: Within its limits, our meta-regression analysis showed that MBL is influenced by the type of drilling preparation and bone mineral density. In particular, a lower MBL was observed in the D1 bone with conventional preparation than with underpreparation. Moreover, a greater implant-to-osteotomy site mismatch was positively associated with greater MBLs in the bone densities of D1/D2/D3.

Facial scanning technologies in the era of digital workflow: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The aim of this network meta-analysis is to evaluate the accuracy of various face-scanning technologies in the market, with respect to the different dimensions of space (x, y, and z axes). Furthermore, attention will be paid to the type of technologies currently used and to the best practices for high-quality scan acquisition. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and its updates. A thorough search was performed using the digital databases MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials by entering research lines or various combinations of free words. The main keywords used during the search process were "photogrammetry", "laser scanner", "optical scanner", "3D", and "face". RESULTS: None of the included technologies significantly deviated from direct anthropometry. The obtained mean differences in the distances between the considered landmarks range from 1.10 to -1.74 mm. CONCLUSIONS: Limiting the movements of the patient and scanner allows for more accurate facial scans with all the technologies involved. Active technologies such as laser scanners (LS), structured light (SL), and infrared structured light (ISL) have accuracy comparable to that of static stereophotogrammetry while being more cost-effective and less time-consuming.

An Analysis of Different Techniques Used to Seal Post-Extractive Sites-A Preliminary Report.

BACKGROUND: Bone grafting in post-extractive site improves tissue regeneration. Soft tissue sealing of the grafted post-extractive alveolus is supposed to limit microbiological contamination from the oral cavity and to stabilize the coagulum. Several techniques are presented in the literature to reach this goal using different heterologous matrices or autogenous grafts. In addition, recently, a technique based on the use of granulation tissue in the post-extractive alveolus has been proposed. AIM: To compare the effect of different graft sealing approaches in post-extractive sites by qualitatively evaluating their healing process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective investigation included 30 patients requiring post-extractive site regeneration in the aesthetic area. Post-extractive sites were regenerated using a bovine bone matrix and patients were divided into three groups (10 patients in each group) according to the material used to seal the alveolar socket. In the UD group, the granulation tissue was used to seal the defect; in the PC group, epithelial-connective soft tissue graft was used, and in the COLL group, a collagen-based membrane was employed. Images of the post-extractive sites at different follow-up periods (2 and 12 weeks) were taken and the healing process was blindly evaluated by two independent practitioners. The Healing Index (HI) by Landry, Turnbull and Howley was used to assess the quality of the healing process. The combination of presence/absence of five clinical criteria defines an HI ranging from 1 (very poor) to 5 (excellent). Patients' clinical-pathological variables were recorded. One-way ANOVA was used to explore the dependence of HI on the different socket preservation protocols. RESULTS: Based on clinical-pathological characteristics of the included patients, there were no statistically significant differences among the different sealing techniques. At the 2-week follow-up appointment, HI did not differ among the socket preservation protocols evaluated. Moreover, smoking status and reason for extraction did not influence the HI among the three groups (two-way ANOVA p-value = 0.686, p-value = 0.248 respectively). At the 2-week follow-up appointment, HI was significantly different among the socket preservation protocols investigated. Specifically, the group undergoing collagen-based socket preservation procedure reported the highest HI, compared to the other two techniques (COLL mean 4.60 ± 0.5; PC mean 3.5 ± 1.2; UD mean 3.4 ± 0.5, one-way ANOVA p-value 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: The use of collagen porcine membranes may represent a suitable option to improve the patient healing process in grafted post-extractive sites together with reducing the surgical intervention time compared to alternative sealing techniques.